September 4, 2013
Ninety years ago, country Queensland was a vastly different place. World War I was still fresh in people’s memories and life in rural areas could be tough and lonely. Along came the Queensland Country Women’s Association to help fill a void …
The first of the rural branches to open was Kingaroy (in 1922). The following year, there was a burst of activity with branches opening up all over the place – including Wondai, which paused to celebrate its 90th birthday on Monday.
Members and friends gathered at the QCWA Hall in Mackenzie Street to reminisce, look at old photos and newspaper clippings and cut a very special birthday cake.
Also celebrating was the club’s choir which marked its 50th birthday.
Cr Kathy Duff congratulated the Wondai group on behalf of the South Burnett Regional Council for their achievements over the years.
“Ninety years is a magnificent achievement,” she said.
But she noted that with all the hardship that had been experienced in the local farming community over recent years, the QCWA was just as relevant today as it ever was.
“It’s tough on the land. It’s tough in a small rural community. We need you now more than ever!” she said.
The Wondai branch has always been active in Music and Drama, and its success over the years in various competitions is reflected in the many trophies and cups that line the clubhouse walls.
The Drama group – which used to write its own skits – folded a few years ago but the choir, which has been led by Carol Francis since its beginning in 1963, is as active as ever and is practising hard for a concert to be held at the end of this month.
NB. Hivesville QCWA branch will be celebrating their 90th birthday on September 27; Maidenwell marked 85 years on August 31.
